Use the CDC milestone checklist at well-child visits

Download or print the free CDC "Learn the Signs. Act Early." milestone checklists and bring them to each well-child visit. These checklists cover social, language, cognitive, and motor milestones for every age from 2 months through 5 years.

Why It Works

The CDC checklists are developed from peer-reviewed research and updated periodically based on population-level data. They give parents a concrete, evidence-based framework rather than relying on memory or anecdotal comparisons with other children. Pediatricians use the same benchmarks during developmental screening.

How to Use Them

1. Access the checklist at cdc.gov/milestones or through the free CDC Milestone Tracker app
2. Review the checklist for your baby's current age
3. Mark which milestones your baby has reached
4. Bring the completed checklist to your next pediatric visit and discuss any unchecked items

Tips

• The CDC updated its milestone checklist in 2022 to reflect when most children (75%) reach each milestone, rather than the previous 50% threshold
• The app sends age-specific reminders and lets you track progress over time
• If your baby was premature, use the adjusted age for milestone tracking until your pediatrician says otherwise